I like the idea of a 'modern' Titanic with all the safety features, with a original looking exterior, as long as it was operated in a dignified, and respectful way (not in some cheap, tacky money making way...'Titanic the floating Casino' anyone?) With all the emotions still running high about anything 'Titanic', and the possibility of somehow being seen to be desecrating the memory of those who were involved in the original tragedy, whoever decided to embark on this, would be walking a proverbial minefield. Having said that, I could see a place for a modern Titanic, catering to the nostalgic and educational cruises/functions, especially recreating the grandeur and beauty of the Edwardian era. I was personally surprised at the amount of interest in the 100th Anniversary events being held, even locally, where I was portraying First Officer Murdoch.

I personally don't feel comfortable about the way it was announced, it seemed like a politically motivated publicity stunt. I also don't feel comfortable or confident at the Chinese being called upon to build her, somehow doesn't 'feel' right and I doubt they would have the expertise needed to undertake such a monumental project. I especially don't care for the Chinese Navy getting involved. It will be interesting to see if this goes ahead or was just a publicity stunt after all....but that's my opinion.

Everyone always complains how modern cruise ships have such a shallow draught in comparison to their overall height and how old liners were better. So, what did they do with the new "super-safe" Titanic II? Added one deck and reduced the draught by three meters. I wonder what people are going to say...

Well, it is now "official".The Australian behind this scheme organised a publicity launch in Southampton today.He maintains the vesselw ill start building later this year and the maiden voyage will be from the same berth at Southampton as the original sailing.Here's a link to BBC's coverage:http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hampshire-21657201

Sorry, I forgot to mention; the maiden voyage is supposed to be in 2016.Not mentioned in the BBC report was some small changes to the beam (I think the TV report said an extra 3m) and the height. Also, it will have the appropriate number of lifeboats this time!

Still no "official" shipbuilding contract and no word on how a shipbuilder and shipbuilding country with zero experience in this kind of export work will deal with such a project. Don't hold your breath.

Its not the first time this has been thought of, but certainly this billionaire seems to be confident although he did not attend the press event in Southampton.

Will be interesting to see what happens with this project or if it just fades away, also its a shame that if she is built it will be in China, appreciate the (UK) couldnt build her but even somewhere in Europe would have been better although alot more expensive I guess.